To support the EFL’s Level Playing Field Week of Action, young people from Brentford FC Community Trust’s autism project took part in our Fanzone before Brentford’s fixture against Sheffield Wednesday. The project, which aims to supports children aged five to 11 years old who have autism or learning difficulties through weekly football sessions, is credited with helping the young people with any communication difficulties they may face. At the Fanzone, they supported Trust staff with a range of exciting activities including a speed cage activity, Giant Jenga and a range of exciting footballing activities.

Fraser Littler, 21, who takes part in the On the Ball programme, said: “I really enjoyed the match and being involved with the Fanzone. It was a fun event with lots of activities going on, and I enjoyed helping some of the participants to join in.”

The project is delivered in partnership with Action Attainment, a charity in west London that is committed to enabling children with speech, language, communication and sensory needs to achieve and have active lives. The “On the Ball” project is part of Brentford FC Community Sports Trust’s wider disability initiatives, which engages with more than 300 children and adults with disabilities each year.

Jon Burr, Diversity and Inclusion Manager of Brentford FC, said: “It was great to have members of the On the Ball session involved in the Fanzone to help promote the Level Playing Fields Weeks of Action. It really helped to raise awareness of the increased accessibility at our new stadium with a significant number of wheelchair and ambulant spaces being added for next season – along with a dedicated sensory room.”

The EFL’s Level Playing Field’s Week of Action demonstrates EFL clubs’ commitment to access and inclusion for children and adults with disabilities – whether that be on a matchday or local community projects. For more information about our disability projects please email us at [email protected].